Best Camping near Belen, NM

Searching for the best camping near Belen, NM? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Belen. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Belen, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Belen, NM (68)

    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey

    1. Albuquerque KOA Journey

    45 Reviews
    73 Photos
    145 Saves
    Monticello, New Mexico

    Welcome to Albuquerque KOA. We have a beautiful campground nestled close to the Sandia Mountains. Whether you are looking for a big rig friendly 80 foot RV sites, cabins , or just tent camping, we are your Albuquerque campground . We have a swimming pool, indoor hot tub, mini golf, playground, horseshoes and a huge park for your pets. We are definitely pet friendly . We are here to help you relax and take care of all your camping needs. There's plenty to do during your camping stay with us. Our KOA is conveniently located near attractions such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , the world's longest aerial Tramway , and we are the closest campground to Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds. The campground is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, the aquarium, zoo, multiple museums and the fascinating Old Town shopping district.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 66 RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 66 RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 66 RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 66 RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 66 RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 66 RV Resort

    2. Route 66 RV Resort

    22 Reviews
    56 Photos
    69 Saves
    Albuquerque, New Mexico
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post

    3. Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post

    20 Reviews
    27 Photos
    91 Saves
    Albuquerque, New Mexico
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $37 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Isleta Lakes & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Isleta Lakes & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Isleta Lakes & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Isleta Lakes & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Isleta Lakes & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Isleta Lakes & RV Park

    4. Isleta Lakes & RV Park

    13 Reviews
    18 Photos
    78 Saves
    Bosque Farms, New Mexico

    Isleta, the Little Island, is your island retreat from day-to-day life. Sitting secluded from the hustle and bustle of Albuquerque, Isleta Lakes & RV Park provides the perfect setting for family fun, corporate events or a peaceful getaway for one. The breathtaking beauty of the Bosque combined with the convenience of year-round fishing and a full-service RV Park are just minutes away from world-class dining and entertainment at Isleta Resort & Casino. Isleta Lakes & RV Park is equipped with everything you need to discover the magic of the outdoors in comfort and style. Featuring 50 full-service RV sites, Isleta Lakes & RV Park is nestled along the river banks of the Rio Grande surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of New Mexico’s outdoors. Enjoy year-round fishing at the fully-stocked Isleta Lakes. Equipped with private grills, Direct TV, Free Wi-Fi, Shower & Laundry Facilities and a Full-Service Convenience Store; Isleta Lakes & RV Park will surpass your expectations. Plus you are minutes away from our championship golf course, luxurious spa, bowling, billiards, mouthwatering dining, Vegas-style casino and unlimited entertainment. Your world-class vacation destination awaits you at Isleta Lakes & RV Park.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $38 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground

    5. Manzano Mountains State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    57 Photos
    122 Saves
    Mountainair, New Mexico

    Manzano Mountains State Park is an excellent destination for hiking and camping. Nestled in the wooded foothills of the Manzanos, this park provides a quiet retreat and is a nice family get-away. Wildlife viewing, birding, and photography are great activities at this park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $5 - $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Camper-submitted photo from High Desert RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from High Desert RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from High Desert RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from High Desert RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from High Desert RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from High Desert RV Park

    7. High Desert RV Park

    13 Reviews
    34 Photos
    67 Saves
    Albuquerque, New Mexico

    76 FULL HOOK UP SITES ON 9 LEVEL ACRES WITH PAVED ROADS LEADING UP TO EACH SITE. TWO AREAS OF THE PARK HAVE SHOWER AND LAUNDRY FACILITIES AND THREE PET AREAS ARE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED FOR YOUR PET'S EXERCISE AND RELIEF.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from American RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American RV Resort

    8. American RV Resort

    14 Reviews
    16 Photos
    38 Saves
    Albuquerque, New Mexico

    American RV Park is a resort-quality facility and New Mexico’s highest-rated RV Park by Visit Albuquerque. Near city conveniences but located in quiet, rural surroundings to make your RV stay more relaxing while staying at the best in class for the market.

    The park has a southwestern theme and is located just off the highway for easy on and off. We are situated on the west side of Albuquerque just a mile and a half from the city limits. Set your lawn chair outside of your RV amidst the trees and enjoy the enchanting New Mexico sunrise and sunset while watching the roadrunners, hawks, and other wildlife trot by your site.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Turquoise Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turquoise Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turquoise Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turquoise Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turquoise Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turquoise Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Campground

    10. Red Canyon Campground

    6 Reviews
    6 Photos
    61 Saves
    Mountainair, New Mexico

    Sites: 38, Elevation: 7,600 large, well shaded campground (38 units + 11 picnic sites in the lower loop) is a good way into Manzano Wilderness via Red and Spruce Canyon trails on foot or horseback. Corrals and parking for horse trailers. This site is open for day use or overnight camping. No water available. PLEASE NOTE: Recreational Vehicles (RV's) longer than 22 feet are not allowed in this campground. Vehicles of this size may only park at Ox Canyon Trailhead, approximately 1.5 miles South of Red Canyon Campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 68 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Belen

Recent Reviews in Belen

388 Reviews of 68 Belen Campgrounds


  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kirtland AFB FamCamp
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Kirtland AFB FamCamp

    Solid Campground

    Solid RV-focused campground. Half under trees and half in the open. Two bathhouses, laundry, and a dog park make this a nice, safe place to spend a couple of days.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Albuquerque KOA Journey

    Great stay great staff

    Drove in very very late at night and was helped in through staff member. Told us everything we needed to know…great 24 hour service.

  • Naoshad Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Dispersed Camping off FS 542

    Easily accessible with peace and quiet. Decent views as well!

    Road is easily traversed but would be more comfortable in a truck/suv. Some rough rutted areas after rains when I went. There are plenty of spots to pull of to along the side of the road. Designated areas with fire pits are bit difficult/narrow to get to if you are towing anything.

  • Junaid A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    My True Review about Top of the New Mexico

    Top of New Mexico" near Albuquerque is a fantastic camping spot if you love open spaces and beautiful desert views. The sunsets here are breathtaking, and you might even spot wild horses roaming around. There's plenty of space for tents or RVs, and it's quiet and well-maintained, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. It can get a little windy, but that just adds to the experience. The road to get there winds through some houses, but once you arrive, you're surrounded by pure nature. also the food is so good, there are many food brands like subway menu who offers quality fast food services.

  • William B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Albuquerque KOA Journey

    Albuquerque KOA: Great Stay Near Dutch Bros Coffee & Cheddar's

    Albuquerque KOA Journey is a great spot for a camping trip, offering clean facilities, kid-friendly amenities, and easy access to nearby attractions. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to Dutch Bros Coffee for a refreshing pick-me-up. Their diverse Dutch Bros menu with prices offers everything from cold brews to blended drinks. For dinner, head over to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. Their Cheddar's menu features hearty, home-cooked meals like ribs, steaks, and gluten-free options, perfect for satisfying any craving after a long day outdoors.

  • W
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque KOA Journey
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Albuquerque KOA Journey

    Unforgettable Camping Adventures in Albuquerque

    Albuquerque is a fantastic destination for camping enthusiasts. With a wide variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The numerous campgrounds offer various amenities and site types, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your needs. Plus, the stunning scenery ranging from the Sandia Mountains to the Rio Grande provides a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures. If you are looking for an exciting camping experience, Albuquerque is definitely worth a visit wnjoy Cheddars Food at your adventure.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dancing Eagle RV Park
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Dancing Eagle RV Park

    Great place to stop over!!

    This place is a little advertised spot. It certainly came at a great time for us. Traveling from Kentucky to Arizona is a long haul, but what more could you ask for than a nice place to stop over for a night. There’s a casino nearby if that’s your flavor. There’s also a gas station, grocery store, DQ, and all kinds of things as close as across the street!

  • David T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley RV park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Hidden Valley RV park

    Definitely NOT as advertised. I do not recommend.

    Run down park, not very well maintained at all. The pictures used on their website are very misleading. Their "Recreation Hall" was disgusting. Dirty carpets, paint cans in the sink, just filthy dirty! The bathrooms were very clean at the bath house. The dog park was disgusting with the trash can there overflowing. Very disappointed and will not be staying at this dump again!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post

    Great in a pinch or any other time

    Well appointed RV park for trailer/RV. Little close to I-40 but sound is not that bad. Picnic table, shade trees, pool, hot tub. Even accept mailing ahead(like Amazon)

    Very friendly staff. Great for the balloon fiesta

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Coronado Campground
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Coronado Campground

    Love the area, some live-ins need to go

    Excellent location and views, just need some lo g term resident clean up or eviction at entrance. We stayed for one night. Great set up and next to a brewery/restaurant in wish we would have visited. Clean bathrooms and nice sites.

  • Candy P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta VIP Lot
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta VIP Lot

    Balloon Fiesta front row seat!

    If you’re lucky enough to score an RV spot, you’ll love being so close to the balloon fiesta! Wake up to hundreds of balloons right over your rig and walk to the fiesta to enjoy the festivities! VIP west includes 2 tickets into the park for every session. Dry camping only, rally style. Be prepared for generator noise and smells… quiet hours are limited to 10pm-4am

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    place to relax

    There are no neighbors, and other vehicles are parked here, but they had to be a quarter of a mile away. Wild horses visit in the morning. We enjoyed the sunrise to sunset. There are easy hikes, and you can do some mountain biking.

  • Jennifer O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Happy Trails RV Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Happy Trails RV Park

    Not really a nightly park

    They were very helpful in a last minute need for a full hook up site. Nice upon late check in. But honestly this seems to be more of a long term resident place than a nightly stop. We came in very late and left very early so no facilities were used. Full hookups, all worked fine.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Quiet Little Get Away

    Used Google Maps and had no problem finding the place. Lots of open area to choose from for parking. The road up to the location is paved but once you enter it is gravel. I have a pro master van and had absolutely no problems. Just drive slow and you should be fine. Might be worse if it was raining heavy or something but overall not a bad path. Saw wild horses which was awesome. The vegetation has a lot of thorns and spikes so for a casual hiker it’s best to stay on the gravel roads. The cell signal was pretty good but not perfect. Enough to have phone calls easy but internet connection was a bit slow.

  • Elle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Stunning Space for Small Vehicles

    Everything about this place is gorgeous. The 360 views from the top are incredible. I didn’t go down into the valley to see what was available but a man came through and mentioned there were options there too.

    On the top of the ridge you’re a little limited for spots but it wasn’t busy enough to cause me an issue. My closest neighbor was a few hundred yards away just like I like it.

    I car camp in a small SUV and the road is definitely not as well worn in as others. You’re also pretty close to the sides of the mountain on a winding rock path so larger or trailered vehicles are probably not ideal.

    The wild horses are active. I saw them in the neighborhood coming through and they came through camp a few times in the evening/night. Dog didn’t love it but they gave us about 30ft of space and didn’t bother much.

    Love this spot but definitely keep size and safety in mind.

  • Penny P.
    Camper-submitted photo from NomadLand RV Stay
    Aug. 9, 2024

    NomadLand RV Stay

    A great place to stay with wonderful staff

    NomadLand was the perfect place to stay while we visited family in Rio Rancho for 3 weeks. We were undercover with full hook-ups, this was very helpful in the hot NM sun. All the sites are flat and paved. They offer free internet, free filtered water, free bags of ice, free coffee, free use of washer and dryer and a free RV wash bay that has an"upper level" so you can reach your rv roof. The park is impeccably clean with new and clean restrooms and shower. The park is gated with cameras so we felt very safe in the middle of the city in a camper. Jessica and Dan were super friendly and helpful. We actually left to go home to NC and had to turn around and go back to NM after my sister-in-law became very sick over the July 4th holiday. I called NomadLand on the outside change they might be able to find a spot for us. I explained everything to Jessica and she said they would find a spot for us somewhere--that spot was the same one we had our first visit. We ended up staying for a month on top of our original 3 weeks. There is a Walgreens, Walmart Neighborhood Market, a brewery and restaurants all within 1/4 of a mile from Nomadland. Neighbors' restaurant is a great place to eat with a great beer list. This is the perfect place to stay if your looking for a base to do some sight seeing and don't need all the things a RV resort has. We would definitely stay here again. There are some campgrounds out there that need see how to run a campground well, they should spend sometime at NomadLand.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Manzano Mountains State Park Campground
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Manzano Mountains State Park Campground

    Quiet shady camp

    It was hot in the valley so we retreated to the nearest mountains. What a quiet little camp. No huge RV’s or anything. Our 6ft wide, 20ft long trailer seemed too big. Our spot accommodated us well. The trails are fabulous. There’s a Track Trail that just opened and a motorized track wheelchair making this park very accessible. Not very many electric sites but that was ok as the temps were cooler (60’s at night)

  • Benjamin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mother Bosque Gardens
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Mother Bosque Gardens

    Beautiful garden, great living hosts

    I stayed for four days at Moss Gardens in Albuquerque. My host were really generous, easy-going helpful. The garden is really beautiful, their house is very clean and tidy. I was able to shower and come out when I was sick. I got to rest on the couch for a little while. They offered us their kitchen. Overall, it was really great to stay there. Very affordable. I highly recommend..

  • Clay L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Top of New Mexico - Dispersed Site

    Superb

    From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. The panoramic views of the mountains and valleys are simply stunning, making every moment a perfect photo opportunity. The site is well-maintained, with plenty of flat areas for tents and parking. And at this place i also wish to try Chicken Strips

  • Bradley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Box Recreation Area
    Jul. 14, 2024

    The Box Recreation Area

    Great spot to overnight off I-25

    This was a lovely spot to overnight just about 20 minutes off I-25 near Socorro NM. Great views and incredible star gazing. This is an important rock climbing destination and there are several hiking trails if have more time than we did.

  • Joshuah F.
    Camper-submitted photo from New Canyon Campground
    Jul. 13, 2024

    New Canyon Campground

    Nice place!

    Overall a nice place to camp. Most beautiful drive into the campsite. Some of the campsites had concrete picnic tables and bear containers. They were up a walkway and some stairs though. The vault toilets were clean. We were approached by a guy letting us know there was a boar and a bear coming down the canyon. He said they were about 700 yards away.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace Farms
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Peace Farms

    Stayed here after a long July 4th weekend in 2024, couldn’t be happier !

    Fay was a great host, amazing spot for rural camping and cheap as heck too! Loved every part of my stay, thanks for running such a top notch operation!

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Valley RV park
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Hidden Valley RV park

    Mismanaged & Poorly Maintained Dump

    I feel bad for anyone who gets tricked into staying here - the website says it’s a beautiful resort with amenities you would find at a retreat, but in reality the place is a ghetto rv park for longtermers that is falling apart. It’s gross & trashy, with most of the “amenities” broken and dirty and the basic utilities malfunctioning. 

    Most sites are extremely narrow, short & unlevel, with barely enough room to pull in and definitely not enough for awnings, slides, steps or your car. Most of the larger sites are occupied by people who live there or are double occupancy so you can't pull-thru. There are no fire rings or picnic tables- if you want to sit outside you have to put your chairs in the road, very close to neighbors.

    There are very few 50 amp sites and many electric boxes exhibit signs of fire & melting. Breakers blow with a minimal load and some areas of the park have repeat blackouts. Sewage hookups and water spigots are on opposite sides, shared with neighbors and water pressure is very low. 

    There are frequent water leaks under the ground, making it's drinkability questionable. It also gets shut off for long periods of time without warning. There are septic tanks randomly scattered all over the property that are very smelly and some sites have sewage leaking out onto the ground. 

    Most signage is faded or completely missing so good luck finding your site or even the campground. The road in and to upper lot are very steep and narrow - there's giant broken speedbumps and throughout the park there is no gravel so it's muddy with lots of potholes and deep ruts. The campground isn't visible from the interstate but you can still hear all the traffic.

    There are tons of signs that say that the speed limit is 5 mph and say Wrong Way, but people still speed without getting into trouble. When the road is dry it kicks up lots of dust, and with the limited space inside sites it seems dangerous to be outside with children and pets because there is no where to hang out but in the road.

    The grass was all dead and uncut with lots of very tall weeds everywhere. There are very pokey seedheads and goat heads that stick in your feet and get tracked into your RV. Pets walking there are in constant pain due to these pokeys sticking in their paws. Many trees were dead or dying, so be careful where you park because overhead branches could come tumbling down on your RV. Shade is hit or miss.

    There is very little to do at this RV park. There was a small basketball court with busted and dirt covered concrete, a tetherball pole with no ball, and a couple of broken picnic tables scattered about. The playground had a small swing set that is not anchored to the ground so the smallest amount of swinging can make it tip over. A short hiking trail that runs the length of the park has low hanging branches and big rocks that make walking it difficult.

    The swimming pool is bright green and closed, the clubhouse appeared to be empty other than belongings from a very smelly & messy homeless family that seemed to be living in it. It was extremely hot, as were all other indoor areas other than the office. All the bathrooms and showers are absolutely filthy, obviously not cleaned regularly, and smell like backed up sewage. The trashcans were overflowing and garbage blowing in the wind with trash lining the woods around the whole park.

    The dog park is covered in poop with no baggie dispenser and a trashcan piled high with bags of feces. The laundry room was dirty - all of the machines were old & several out of order. The only place in the RV park that was clean and not crumbling was the inside (outside looks rough) of the office, but it's basically empty and not a place to hang out.

    There are a couple of tent sites that are level but very close together - they have power, water and a picnic table but campfires are not permitted anywhere in the park. There are no tent or RV sites that are dry camping even though they advertise that there are. 

    All of the lights throughout the park are burnt out, so it's pitch black at night. With the large amount of ditches, holes, dirt piles, scattered rocks and trash debris everywhere it's dangerous to traverse at night. There are also lots of coyotes and snakes, so keep your kids and pets indoors at night. 

    All of the people employed (I'd say working but there is obviously NO work being done) there appear to be on meth. They act paranoid and sketchy, talking fast while grinding their teeth and unable to make eye contact. There were lots of people who looked homeless & high coming and going in broken down vehicles and hanging out with the managers, so it seemed like they were selling drugs out of the RV office.

    The office hours constantly change depending on when the druggie managers feel like opening it. Some mornings it's closed when it's supposed to be open, some nights they are in there until really late. The two of them do weird stuff at all hours, outside being loud in the middle of night and sound asleep in the middle of the day when they are supposed to be working. They are incredibly irresponsible and lazy, and seem to lack any skills or knowledge about RVs or park maintenance.

    This RV park was recently purchased by an investment company out of Texas and have nobody on the grounds making sure that things are running smoothly. They have not invested any money into repairs or improvements; previous owners allowed the property to decay, refusing to spend money on fixing anything or paying for decent help.

    Many visitors complain that the cost to stay ends up being MUCH higher than is advertised. All kinds of additional fees and taxes are tacked on so expect to pay 25-50% more than you were quoted when checking in. Discounts for being in various clubs may not be honored, changing all the time. 

    Crime and theft in the RV park were rare until the methhead managers took over and have attracted bad apples to the area. Now people associated with that lifestyle have free reign, taking over community spaces, sleeping in cars, being allowed to camp for free, and hanging out at the office, eyeballing your stuff.

    They smell awful and make nasty messes everywhere they go. You can see them digging through the trash in search of metals and spreading all of their broken belongings out. So I wouldn't leave your site unoccupied or anything of worth outside nowadays.  

    I really cannot recommend that anyone stay at this RV park, but especially if you are looking for a vacation spot because you will be extremely disappointed. Photos on the website must have been taken a long time ago during better days, and amenities advertised are now so broken down that they are no longer usable.

    It's really unfortunate that this RV park has fallen into disrepair and isn't being managed by capable people, because otherwise it's a great location surrounded by forest. It's close enough to Albuquerque and Edgewood for groceries, restaurants and entertainment, but far enough away to escape the hussle and bussle. The local mountain towns don't have much to offer but are quaint, and the campground is near to Sandia mountain and outdoor recreation like hiking.

  • s
    Camper-submitted photo from Escondida Lake Park & Campground
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Escondida Lake Park & Campground

    Nice little spot

    First night (Friday) was great. Quiet. Saturday was quiet as well. Not much to catch at the lake. 3pm someone rolls up next to us. Definitely in the wrong spot and he would have known that if he was aware of the “back in” policy. Gave the lake caretaker a call, no answer. No big deal they were quiet. Until 10pm. Loud music. Karaoke with children screaming into the mic with the already loud sound system. Tried calling the caretaker, no answer mailbox full. Didn’t want to bother the police department so decided to wait and see if one of the kids woke up and then I’d call, figuring then I’d be super late. The music stopped suddenly my guess is around 12-2am. I guessing someone called the police or got a hold of the caretaker. Will stay again, however the campsite needs to be checked on by the county imo. If this were to happen again, I’d call non-emergency PD to deal with it.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off FS 542
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Dispersed Camping off FS 542

    Roads are a little rough

    Nice place to stop. I was the only one there. There’s a couple spots when you first get in, and then there’s more further up but the roads get worse. There were coyotes around.



Guide to Belen

Camping near Belen, New Mexico, offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area around Belen is great for hiking and enjoying nature. Campers have noted that the Dispersed Camping off FS 542 offers beautiful views and plenty of space to set up camp. One reviewer mentioned, "Nice place to stop. I was the only one there," highlighting the peacefulness of the area.
  • Visit local attractions: If you're near Albuquerque, check out the Albuquerque KOA Journey. It's just a short drive away and has amenities like a pool and playground. A visitor shared, "The site is spotless and the security is excellent," making it a reliable choice for families.
  • Enjoy the desert landscape: The San Lorenzo Canyon is a stunning spot for those who love unique rock formations. One camper said, "Simply gorgeous area," which captures the beauty of this location.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At the Route 66 RV Resort, a guest noted, "Extremely clean. Quiet. Good internet," which is a big plus for those who want comfort while camping.
  • Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds like the Albuquerque KOA Journey offer fun for kids, including a jump pad and mini-golf. A parent mentioned, "My kids loved every second of it!" which shows it's a hit with families.
  • Safety and security: Campers feel secure at places like the Kirtland AFB FamCamp. One reviewer stated, "I had no concern for my safety staying on base," which is reassuring for many.

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds, like the American RV Resort, are close to highways, which can lead to noise. A visitor mentioned, "Freeway noise and sites right next to each other were the negatives," so be prepared for some sound.
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. For example, the Enchanted Trails RV Park & Trading Post has basic offerings, with one camper saying, "Just the basics but clean."
  • Wildlife encounters: Campers at the Kirtland AFB FamCamp have noted seeing wildlife. One reviewer shared, "You will see plenty of wildlife as well," which can be a fun experience for nature lovers.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and pools. The Route 66 RV Resort has a resort-style pool and a dog washing facility, making it a great choice for families.
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have games or activities ready for downtime. One parent at the Albuquerque KOA Journey mentioned, "Clean, modern and convenient showers were pluses for Mom and Dad," indicating that parents can enjoy some relaxation too.
  • Be mindful of noise: If your kids are light sleepers, consider campgrounds away from busy roads. The Dispersed Camping off FS 542 offers a quieter experience, as one camper noted, "I was the only one there."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for spacious sites: RVers appreciate campgrounds with ample space between sites. The High Desert RV Park has been praised for its spaciousness, with one reviewer stating, "Easy access from highway and we had a great pull thru site."
  • Check for amenities: Make sure the campground has the necessary hookups and facilities. A visitor at the American RV Resort mentioned, "Clean sites and laundry facilities," which is essential for longer stays.
  • Be prepared for weather: The desert can get hot during the day and cool at night. Campers at the Manzano Mountains State Park Campground enjoyed the cooler temperatures, with one saying, "The temps were cooler (60’s at night)."

Camping near Belen, New Mexico, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort. Just remember to check the specifics of each campground to find the best fit for your adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions